The Durham Region Area Archives Group (DRAAG) is an advocacy and support group for the history of Durham Region. The group, made up of Durham’s archives and libraries, works to promote and preserve the shared documentary heritage of Durham Region.

In June 2011, archivists and local history librarians from several different sites in the Durham Region met to discuss forming an advocacy group that would work to make researching the interconnected and yet separate histories of our area more easily accessible.

To this end, a website was created that could act as a portal for researchers allowing them quick access to our collections from one spot. The group also pledged to work together to promote heritage events in the area as well as develop joint exhibits highlighting the area’s history.

Discussion began concerning expanding the role or mission of the group. Beyond being an advocacy group, it was felt that the group could work more proactively to increase the awareness of our collections in the community by hosting workshops and speakers. The members felt that formalizing the group as a Chapter of the AAO would provide us with the support and structure needed to move the group forward.

In the fall of 2012, the Durham Region Area Archivist Group formally became the newest chapter of the AAO. The group holds an annual event to celebrate Archives Awareness Week in April, as well as a Christmas Social.